Edo lawmaker Esosa Iyawe explains defection from Labour Party to APC

Esosa Iyawe, the House of Representatives member for Oredo Constituency in Edo State, has revealed the reasons behind his decision to leave the Labour Party (LP) and join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The lawmaker attributed his defection to the persistent leadership crises and the numerous legal battles plaguing the LP, which he said undermined the party’s stability and direction.

In a statement released on Thursday, Iyawe explained that his move was driven by his political interests and the need to align with a more stable platform.

He criticized the Labour Party’s leadership for its failure to resolve disputes and identify a legitimate Caretaker Committee at both the national and state levels.

“My decision to resign from LP is as a result of the party’s inability to identify its legitimate leadership from the national to state levels,” he stated.

“The incessant tussle rocking the party and the numerous court cases against its leadership have left me and my supporters in a state of confusion regarding the party’s stability.”

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Iyawe is one of four Labour Party lawmakers who recently defected to the APC. This wave of defections signals broader dissatisfaction among LP members, particularly those seeking clearer leadership structures and a more cohesive political agenda.

Iyawe emphasized that his resignation was immediate and aimed at safeguarding his political career and the interests of his constituents.

His decision highlights the challenges faced by the Labour Party, which has struggled with internal disputes and legal battles since its rise to prominence during Nigeria’s 2023 elections.

The APC, which currently holds the majority in the House of Representatives, has welcomed the defectors as part of its strategy to consolidate power and build momentum ahead of future elections.

Iyawe’s defection underscores the critical need for internal reforms within the Labour Party to retain its members and maintain its relevance on the national stage.

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As the political landscape evolves, the defections could weaken the LP’s position as a formidable opposition party, while strengthening the APC’s dominance in legislative affairs.